Marseille and the Calanques with Pamela Morton
Originally from the US, Pamela has lived in France (Aix-en-Provence and Marseille) for 25 years. Pamela teaches studio art and art history for American university programs in Aix. She trained in art restoration in Italy and has a background in museum work as a curatorial assistant and program director. She is also an artist working in mixed media -- drawing and painting. She attended Bennington College and California College of the Arts. She's worked as the on-site director for a study abroad program and for educational programs including the Smithsonian, Alumni International and Cultural Experiences Abroad. She's taught for Northwestern University, Oberlin College, and the Marchutz School of Art (Aix). As an art historian, Pamela is endlessly fascinated by the local culture, the archaeology, history, and architecture of the region as well as its monuments and museums. As a painter, she is intrigued by the light and colors of this southern realm, the Midi, where so many artists lived and worked. Her two favorite artists from Provence are Cézanne and van Gogh.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
I had been to Marseille on several occasions during 1994-95 when upset people were bombing American planes at Paris airports. Flying out of Marseilles or Brussels was far safer. Because of the drug trafficking that Marseilles was known for at the time there was a heavy police presence which makes bombings more difficult apparently. I did have lunch there at a portside restaurant one afternoon during the same time period that was totally delightful and absolutely delicious. It was so nice to hear how Marseilles has evolved from the bad old days of my experience to the wonderful city it has become. Interesting, classy (have to see the new museum on the waterfront), historic, safe, and fun!
Pamela Morton is a excellent guide and historian. We not only visited the sites of Marseille but we also learned of the historical significance of the city. Pamela always has wonderful visuals.
Pamela introduction to Marseille made me think differently about the city! Love the history of the city as well as the new art developments recently, I will definite add Marseille to future travel itineraries in the south of France!